The Detroit Pistons are approaching what could be their most significant offseason in years.
After surprising many in their second season under head coach J.B. Bickerstaff securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference and posting a 60-22 record the focus now turns to building on that success. Fans are eager to see the front office take steps toward capturing the franchise’s first NBA title since 2004.
While the core of the team is expected to remain intact, some roster changes are likely, including a few new faces and some role players departing. Below is a look at who the Pistons are likely to keep and who might be on their way out.
Likely to Stay
Of all the players on Detroit’s roster, Cade Cunningham is the only sure thing to return next season, barring a seismic trade. Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson are also considered key pieces the organization wants to hold onto, even if both could theoretically be traded to land a star alongside Cunningham.
One of the biggest questions is whether the Pistons will retain Tobias Harris. He’s set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Since rejoining Detroit for the 2024–25 campaign, Harris has provided veteran leadership and played a key role in the team’s turnaround. General manager Trajan Langdon has expressed hope that Harris will return. His impact was especially evident in the first round of the playoffs, when Detroit rallied from a 3–1 series deficit to defeat the Orlando Magic.
Could Depart
While several players might end up on the trade block if the Pistons make an aggressive move, two stand out as likely to leave: Kevin Huerter and Caris LeVert.
LeVert is under contract for two more years, but he could easily be included in a trade package for a co-star alongside Cunningham. Huerter, meanwhile, will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. Acquired at the trade deadline in the Jaden Ivey deal, his stint in Detroit didn’t go as planned. His three-point shooting has declined since joining the Pistons, making a departure and a signing elsewhere almost certain.
Potential Additions
Landing a co-star for Cunningham will define the Pistons’ offseason and their championship aspirations for next season. Fans have already identified several top candidates, with Lauri Markkanen, Michael Porter Jr., and Trey Murphy III being the most frequently mentioned. Detroit can only add one of them, but any would be a major step forward. Another possible target is veteran guard Kyrie Irving of the Dallas Mavericks, who would bring even more experience to the Pistons’ roster.
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